EDMONTON – A Wetaskiwin man is facing drug-related charges after a medicinal grow-op site near Millet was found to be nearly double the size allowed under Health Canada licence conditions.
RCMP and members of the Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team’s Green Team shut down the grow-op at a rural home just outside Millet on Wednesday.
Officers said the investigation was the result of an anonymous tip made through Crime Stoppers.
The property was an authorized medicinal grow-op site, but officers say they found 372 marijuana plants, which is nearly double the number of plants permitted.
“We do know that there is people that do have the valid medical licences… and are in compliance. But this is another great example of the abuse and how easy it is to abuse the licence that is issued,” said Sgt. Dwayne Karpo with ALERT.
WATCH: Medicinal grow-op dismantled near Millet
All of the plants were seized, along with growing equipment. ALERT said the approximate value of the marijuana plants was $445,000.
Amardeep Randwawa, 22, was arrested. He is now facing charges of possession for the purpose of trafficking and production. Officers noted that additional charges and arrests could be coming, as the investigation is ongoing.